
Deception - Message Study Questions
Message Summary
There are multiple layers to deception. Deception includes misrepresentation or distortion of facts as well as the withholding of information. There is the deception to the masses, deception on an interpersonal level and one can even deceive them self. Deception is a powerful force that twists and distorts one’s ability to see things clearly. Judas deceived himself into believing he was doing the right thing. That self-deception evolved into deceptive words and actions and finally betrayal. But we are just like Judas when we promise God something and then do the opposite. We’ve all betrayed our allegiance to God. The key is to repent and get back on the right track. Christians are called to be people of integrity. When you always tell the truth, you will experience better and more authentic, meaningful relationships, and less guilt and anxiety over possible exposure of your deception. Integrity starts with self and with God.
Why are people deceptive?
What promotes betrayal? What promotes faithfulness in relationships?
Consider This
Trust is the bedrock of social life at all levels, from romance and parenting to national government. Deception always undermines it. Because truth is so essential to the human enterprise, which relies on a shared view of reality, the default assumption most people have is that others are truthful in their communications and dealings. But is that always so?
Honesty requires a willingness to admit our wrongs to self and to God. According to Psalm 51:5-6 and Jeremiah 17:9, why is this sometimes difficult? How did David overcome? (Psalm 51:10-12)
James says, “… You must all be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to get angry” (James 1:19b). How can focus on listening and slowing down your response prevent a lie before you speak it?
Can you think of a time you were betrayed in a trust relationship? How can you respond in a godly way to this?
a. What are the dos and what are the don’ts?
b. How can you/did you find healing and the ability to engage in trust relationships again?
Lying is one thing, withholding information is another. Read Proverbs 10:14, 19.
Are there times and circumstances when you should not tell everybody who asks every fact?
a. How can you still respond with integrity?b. How can you know how to respond?
Is it possible that Satan posing as an angel of light may speak lies to you? (2 Corinthians 11:13-15) What about self-deception?
a. Can you think of a time when you thought you were following God, only to discover you had been deceived?b. How could you avoid that in the future?
The Bible teaches that a dishonest and indulgent lifestyle will face judgment in the life to come. Read Amos 6:3-7 and Galatians 6:7-8. What will the dishonest and indulgent also face in this life?
a. Why are these consequences sometimes delayed according to 2 Peter 3:9?
When people reject truth, they risk losing their ability to discern truth. Jesus said; “If any man is willing to do His will, he shall know of the teaching, whether it is of God, or whether I speak from Myself.” (John 7:17 NASB)
a. How can we retain the ability to know the truth?
Moving Forward
If you allow your hurt to fester and grow inside you, it will only make you bitter and ugly. It’s time for you to forgive and let go of that offense so you can move on with your life so you don’t become cold and distant.
Do you need to rid yourself of “deceit, hypocrisy, envy, and slander of every kind” (1 Peter 2:1b) this week? How could you accomplish that?
First John says, “If we confess our sins …” (1 John 1:9a). How hard is it for you to admit to God that you were/are wrong?
a. Why do you think confession is sometimes difficult?b. Read the rest of 1 John 1:8-10. What are the consequences when we refuse to admit our sins to God?
c. Can you ask God to search your heart and reveal any unconfessed sin this week?
Forgiveness is granted, trust is earned. Is there someone you need to focus on forgiving? Will you start with a conversation with God about it this week?
Is there someone you need to reach out to this week in Christian love?